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Preliminary identification

General Foulois Award Wilberforce Pendulum Demonstration Model, 1973

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A custom-crafted scientific demonstration apparatus presented as the 1973 General Foulois Award to Robert A. Kerr. This fascinating device is a functional Wilberforce Pendulum, designed to physically demonstrate the complex physics of 'flutter'—the destructive aerodynamic forces that can tear an aircraft's wings apart in flight.

Story

In 1973, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, this custom-built pendulum was awarded to Robert A. Kerr. It physically demonstrates 'flutter,' the terrifying aerodynamic phenomenon that can tear military aircraft wings apart in mid-air.

Maker / Origin

This piece was custom-fabricated by the technicians and engineers at the Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory (AFFDL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. AFFDL has been at the forefront of aeronautical breakthroughs since the dawn of flight, designing and testing the structural integrity of America's most advanced experimental aircraft.

Condition & Value

The wooden stand, custom case, and brass components appear to be in excellent, well-preserved condition with minor age-related patina on the metal. The original paper 'Fact Sheet' shows some creasing and light staining consistent with its age, but remains fully legible.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.